The WUSA9 Weather Team has issued a Weather Impact Alert for Thursday from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. across the D.C. area. Forecasters warn of heavy rain and strong storms that could produce gusty winds, with the greatest risk along and east of the I-95 corridor.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed that area under a level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather. Meanwhile, the WJZ First Alert Weather Team has declared a First Alert Weather Day for Maryland, citing the potential for a line of powerful storms that could bring down trees and cause localized flooding and power outages.
Scattered showers are possible Thursday morning, but the main batch of strong to severe storms will develop during the late afternoon and early evening. The primary threats are damaging winds and heavy downpours. A few storms could produce hail, and some will pack intense lightning. Forecasters have not ruled out an isolated tornado or two.
The expected timeline runs from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m., with storms moving from west to east. Not everyone will see severe weather. The greatest chance is across northern, central, and northeastern Maryland.
Friday’s forecast is trending drier, with a mix of sun and clouds and highs in the lower 80s. But showers and storms return Friday night and continue off and on through the weekend. Of the two weekend days, Saturday looks to be the wettest. Sunday features a few leftover storms as a cold front crosses the area.
Temperatures will top out in the low to mid-80s with plenty of humidity throughout the weekend. It will feel a bit warmer than actual readings.
After the rounds of showers and storms, high pressure builds in for a pair of quieter days. Monday, the first day of school for many students in the Baltimore area, brings high temperatures closer to 80 degrees, a mix of sun and clouds, and lower humidity. Humidity remains low for Tuesday, an almost carbon copy of Monday. Unsettled weather returns Wednesday with a chance of showers and storms.
